How to support colleagues during Ramadan
Ramadan has begun. It is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and this year, it extends from Monday, May 6th through Monday, June 3rd. During this time, Muslims are encouraged to fast of food and water throughout daylight hours, breaking for meals only after the sun sets. Ramadan is observed by Muslims all throughout the world, representing various ethnicities and nations.
This morning, after a colleague and friend sent warm wishes to his friends and family in preparation for a joyful and peaceful Ramadan via Facebook, I felt a strong need to connect with non-Muslims and allies who often ask, “What can allies do….?” I’ve collected a short list for you in this new: “What Can Allies Do” series on how to support Muslim colleagues (family and friends) who may be observing Ramadan.
Don’t assume people observe Ramadan based on their appearance or ethnicity. A close friend of mine is Afghani but not Muslim. At a job where she previously worked, colleagues insisted on wishing her a Happy Ramadan, and asking why she was eating. They never asked her if she practiced Islam.
Read a little about Ramadan (maybe learn a little about Islam) to understand the fasting, prayers, and additional actions and obligations that may be involved.
Recognize that every walk of faith is different, so individuals may practice differently than what you read. Before assuming, ask and learn.
At appropriate times, ask (self-identified) Muslim colleagues and employees what Ramadan means to them, and how you can support them. The may tell you how they are observing the month or if they need anything from you. (If you’re not sure you should ask, put yourself on the other end and think about something deeply meaningful to you – that’ll help avoid “othering” out of curiosity, instead of learning with compassion).
As a manager, partner or teammate, try to schedule the most intricate and challenging meetings, conversations, or work discussions towards the earlier part of the work-day. Try limiting intense discussions or labor during the evenings, if possible. Don’t schedule performance reviews in the late afternoon or early evening for employees observing Ramadan!
Accommodate flexible schedules and reschedule non-essential meetings when you can.
Avoid working lunches and lunch meetings. That’s not to say you can’t, but it’s more inclusive if you didn’t.
Consider anything in the evenings to be optional – happy hour, social games, etc. since this is usually a sacred time. As an ally, if your organization has catered lunch or evening team events, maybe save something for your colleagues to take home (if they wish), or ask to reschedule the event out of solidarity.
If you must eat near someone who’s observing Ramadan, be considerate and don’t ask them to pass you food items or don’t offer a “cheat”. Also, don’t be offended if Muslims observing Ramadan choose not to stick around when snacks are being served.
If you share a workspace with someone observing Ramadan, consider eating lunch elsewhere and limit the community snacks within your workspace during the period. Also, it’s great if you acknowledge your colleague! It’s as simple as, “Hey I know you’re observing Ramadan. I hope it’s peaceful and joyous for you. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to support you during this time.”
One of the basic ways to show solidarity is to acknowledge and recognize individuals rather than pretending it’s no big deal or that you don’t see it. Wishing colleagues a peaceful, happy and joyous Ramadan can go a long way.
In the comments below, I’d love to see how you or your company shows solidarity to Muslim colleagues, or examples of inclusive work environments with an awareness of Ramadan. —————– Special Thanks: Atif Mehmood, for inspiring me to write this. For more tips about how to support colleagues during Ramadan, HR Zone has excellent tips for employers. Also, visit Ramadan Etiquette for non-Muslims by CNN. Consult your HR team to learn if there are existing inclusive policies to recognize sacred holy seasons. If there aren’t, this is a great time to flex your ally muscle and spearhead the development of one.
Originally published via LinkedIn: What Can Allies Do: How to Support Colleagues During Ramadan